The Rose Garden Lychee Sparkler is floral and fruity, perfect for your next garden party or a refreshing afternoon delight! Featuring Empress 1908 Elderflower Rose Gin, strawberry puree, lychee syrup, lemon, and sparkling water.

I partnered with Empress 1908 Gin to mix up the Rose Garden Lychee Sparkler recipe! Recipe and ideas are my own.

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Rose Garden Lychee Sparkler

This Rose Garden Lychee Sparkler not only looks stunning but also tastes like a spring garden in full bloom! It’s a gorgeous cocktail that blends the exotic sweetness of lychee with the elegant floral hints of rose and elderflower.

This drink starts with a base of vibrant strawberry puree and lychee syrup, followed by a splash of lemon juice for that zesty kick. Rosewater adds a subtle floral aroma, which perfectly complements the botanical notes of the Empress 1908 Elderflower Rose Gin. Creating the final layer with the gin is easy, just use the back of a spoon to pour over. I use plain sparkling water, but feel free to experience with flavored varieties like strawberry, berry, or rose.

About Empress Gin

Empress 1908 Gin originates from the Victoria Distillers in British Columbia and it’s crafted with 8 botanicals including juniper, grapefruit peel, butterfly pea blossoms, and the Fairmont Empress Blend Tea in small batch copper-pots. Click here to find out more about Empress 1908 Gin’s brand story and their inspiration behind the spirit.

Ingredients for the Rose Garden Lychee Sparkler

• Empress 1908 Elderflower Rose Gin: This gin not only adds complexity and flavor but also introduces a gorgeous red color.
• Strawberry Puree: Adds a sweet and fruity base to the cocktail. If strawberries aren’t available, raspberry or cherry puree can also work well.
• Lychee Syrup: Extracted from canned lychees, this syrup infuses the drink with a unique, sweet flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Brings a fresh tartness that balances the sweetness of the syrups. Bottled lemon juice works here too.
• Rosewater: A dash enhances the cocktail with its floral notes.
• Sparkling Water: Adds the fizz that makes this drink a sparkler!
  

How to Make the Rose Garden Lychee Sparkler

Creating this cocktail is easy and fun!

Start by adding the strawberry puree, lychee syrup, lemon juice, and rosewater in a cocktail glass. Stir well to combine. Next, fill the glass with ice to chill. Pour in the sparkling water.

Use the back of a spoon to carefully pour the Empress 1908 Elderflower Rose Gin over the top to create a layered effect. For a final touch, garnish with a fresh strawberry, a lychee, and an edible flower. Stir gently before sipping!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What flavors of sparkling water would work in this cocktail?
The Rose Garden Lychee Sparkler is versatile when it comes to choosing sparkling water flavors. For a neutral taste that lets the other ingredients shine, plain sparkling water is perfect. However, if you want to add an extra layer of flavor, try floral or fruit-infused sparkling waters. Rose, elderflower, or even berry-flavored sparkling waters can complement the existing flavors of strawberry and lychee. Avoid overly citrusy or contrasting flavors that might overpower the delicate balance of the floral and sweet notes in the cocktail.

How do I ensure the gin layers well over the other ingredients?
To create a distinct layer with the gin, pour it slowly over the back of a spoon held just above the drink’s surface. This technique allows the gin to gently overflow across the ice and float on top of the other pre-mixed ingredients, creating a gradient effect.

Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?
Yes, you can pre-mix the strawberry puree, lychee syrup, lemon juice, and rosewater in advance. Store this mixture in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to assemble the cocktails, just add ice, sparkling water, and the gin to ensure each glass is as fresh and fizzy as possible.

What type of rosewater is best for cocktails, and how much should I use?
For cocktails, it’s best to use culinary-grade rosewater, which is made specifically for use in food and beverages. Rosewater can be quite potent, so a small dash is usually sufficient to impart a subtle floral note without overwhelming the other flavors in the cocktail.

More Gin Cocktails to Enjoy

• Rhubarb Empress & Tonic
• Empress Coconut Lychee Cocktail
• Italian Sunset Sour

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